Donna Faye Turner

MADISON - Donna Faye (Riker) Turner recently moved on. She was born in Madison on May 23, 1927, to Lillian (Bittrich) and John Riker, and passed away on Aug. 26, 2015. We all have influences that shape our personalities. Influences on Donna, that made Donna Turner, are many. She came of age during WW2. She married young-- nineteen. She witnessed the destructiveness of alcohol among some of her friends and family. She felt the restraints of a patriarchal society. Initially she was vulnerable to dogmas and propaganda. These were Donna's initial influences, but she evolved into a progressive, open-minded adult who was way ahead of her time in addressing social, political and environmental issues. She marched in the streets, organized, and supported women's rights, the peace movement, the U.N., and various minorities. She worked for the State during her sabbatical to California. Upon returning to Madison, she worked in the Capitol, the University, and later joined the staff of Triangle Community Ministry. She became involved with the Bayview Foundation as a volunteer, teaching sign language there. She held positions in United Methodist Women and Church Women United. She remained active in First United Methodist Church. Her recent last organizational creation there was forming a bereavement support group. Donna is survived by her four children——Flower/Roger, California, Daniel Lee, California, Frederick/ Tammi, Hawaii, Lillian/ Steve, Pardeeville Wisconsin and a bevy of offspring. A warm thanks goes out to Grace Hospice for extending Donna's time, allowing her to be moved to Saint Mary's Nursing Home, where the staff embraced her. Britney Smith cared for Donna like a protective Mother. Kelsey Britney and Lisa Reed were attentive and caring. Thank you, all. At the end, Home Health United, with Lisa Packard leading, wrapped their arms around Donna. Special mention to Sister George Ann who offered friendship and spiritual comfort. We also thank the staff at University Hospital, especially Dr. Kowaleski. We remember Donna Turner as a leader, a fabulous dancer, a gifted musician, and a loving, compassionate woman. Memorial to be held on Sept. 27, at First United Methodist Church, 203 Wisconsin Ave., Madison, WI, starting at 1:30, with food and fellowship afterwards. Everyone is invited. Online condolences may be made to www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608)221-5420